We're back, as promised with another Getting Started post! Hooray!
Our Calligraphy Starter Kits have been super popular ever since their launch (YAY for the lettering love!) and now that people have started using them, a few key questions have popped up. So we're here today to help answer them in video-form!
First of all, people brought up the question about getting the nib in the holder. Our holders are well worn, you see, so the nibs aren't that difficult to put in. New holders (especially the ones with a brass flange) can be VERY tight when they're new. So don't hesitate to use some force to get the nib slipped it. The tightness is actually a good thing because once you get your nib in it will STAY where you want!
Secondly, the ink. While much simpler than getting the nib in the holder, it can take a little finesse to get the right consistency. You should be able to write well with the sumi ink right out of the bottle. BUT if it seems thick or it's been sitting in your little well for a few days it could definitely benefit from a little watering down. Take this slow though...because if you put in too much water the ink will no longer be an opaque black. You're striving for the consistency of heavy cream.
Seeing it demonstrated is THE BEST way to learn, so if you have questions about setting up your tools-or you need a refresher please watch the video! At the end, Bailey even shows some quick strokes to get you warmed up each time you sit down to practice.
As always, let us know in the comments if you have any questions. We're here to help!
Peace, Love and Letters,
Emma & Bailey
Thank you so much for doing this! I've been sharing with my readers and on pinterest. I know that your tutorials have helped me and I love being able to pass that along!
ReplyDeleteWe're thrilled to hear that you're finding them helpful! Thanks for sharing and I hope your followers are enjoying them too:) xoxo Bailey
Deleteloving all your info! Thanks + HoHoHo
ReplyDeleteHi there! Does Mrs. B offer private lessons? Thank you!
ReplyDeleteFinally put my pen together and practiced today! Sooo wonderful. I've been using fountain pens until now, and I am in love with this calligraphy pen!! I have a couple questions about caring for it. Should I take the nib out after every use? And if I don't use all the ink in the well, should I try to pour it back into the bottle? I'm still new to this! Thank you for all your help and tutorials!
ReplyDeleteHi Ally,
DeleteHooray! How exciting:)
I keep my nib in the pen until it needs to be changed. If you are going to practice everyday, you can keep the ink in the well with the lid on and simply dilute it with water each time you sit down to letter. If not, I'd try and get it back in the bottle (with a pipette or eyedropper). You can also look for a jar with a screw-top lid if you'd like to store it permanently outside the bottle.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you think of anything else.
xo
Bailey